The attack took place just one day after the visit of US Deputy Special Envoy to the Middle East, Ms. Morgan Ortagus, to Lebanon to discuss the dis armament of Hezbollah forces, in the context of the still- fragile ceasefire between the two sides.
The ceasefire was established from November 27, 2024, in order to end more than a year of conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. This agreement is based on a resolution of the United Nations Security Council, whereby the Lebanon army and the United Nations peacekeeping force will be the only forces present in the south of the country, and require disarming all non -state groups.
Under the terms of the deal, Hezbollah must retreat north of the litani River, about 30 km from the Israeli border, and demolish all remaining military infrastructure in the South.
Although it was the only force in Lebanon that did not surrender weapons after the 1975-1990 civil war, Hezbollah has now seriously weakened after recent clashes with Israel.
For its part, Israel has pledged to withdraw troops across the Blue Route - the border determined by the United Nations. However, so far, Israel has maintained its presence at five locations in southern Lebanon that it considers strategic, violating its commitments under the deal.
During her visit to Lebanon, Ms. Ortagus met with senior officials including Finance Minister Yassine Jaber, Economic Minister Amer Bisat and Central Bank Governor Karim Souaid. The discussions revolved around efforts to reform the economy and expand state power, which were seen as a prerequisite for rebuilding areas devastated by war.
In a TV interview, Ms. Ortagus emphasized the need to fully promote the implementation of the ceasefire, especially the armament between Hezbollah and militia forces. She also said she was pressuring Lebanon to quickly take the necessary steps.
